Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation and Turkiye's MTA International Company signed a term sheet in Islamabad on October 16, 2026, to jointly explore and develop antimony, copper, gold, silver, molybdenum, and other minerals across Exploration License EL-318 covering 498.82 square kilometers in Pishin, Balochistan. The project encompasses mineral exploration, mining, processing, and marketing.
A joint venture company will be formed in Pakistan by the two corporations alongside a designated entity of the Balochistan government. MTAIC will act as the operator by supplying exploration technology and international expertise, with all prospecting activities following international JORC standards.
Both parties plan to complete definitive agreements by December 31, 2026. The current term sheet outlines the proposed partnership framework while final contracts are still pending.
Antimony serves as a vital mineral for defense equipment, flame retardants, batteries, metal alloys, and electronics. Officials expect the venture to draw foreign investment, bring in advanced mining technology, generate local employment, and aid economic growth in Balochistan.
This collaboration also contributes to broader economic ties between Pakistan and Turkiye under the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council framework.
The signing ceremony was held at the PMDC head office in Islamabad, featuring Turkiye's Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Irfan Neziroglu, as the chief guest.
Engr. Asad Ahmad, the Managing Director and CEO of PMDC, and Dr. Nail Yildirim, the General Manager of MTAIC, signed the document while senior officials from both groups looked on.
According to PMDC, the alliance will broaden its collection of critical and precious metals.
Ahmad stated that the collaboration will merge PMDC geological knowledge and mining background with MTAIC exploration skills to tap into Pakistan mineral wealth, draw investment, and build jobs in Balochistan.
PMDC functions as a fully government-owned enterprise under the Petroleum Division of the Ministry of Energy, holding a mandate for mineral exploration, mining, processing, and marketing nationwide.
